I am wanting to make some action figures using 3d models but I dont know how to add articulation to the model after it looks the way I want it to I am using zbrush rhino and solidworks which program should I use to add the joints to the figure and how do I do it? thanks for any help (im unfortunately still a noob at this stuff) oh yah I plan on eventually milling the figure in wax or clay and then casting it for the final piece… if that helps at all thanks again
What do you mean by “articulation”? Do you mean posing, or do you mean something else?
If you’re just talking about posing, you can use whatever program is most comfortable for you. Each animation program has its own rigging system. You can even pose figures in ZBrush, either via ZSphere rigging or using TransPose. If you go to www.pixologic.com/docs you’ll find info on both methods.
I dont mean for posing I mean adding joints that would carry over to a tangible physical model I want to mill an action figure that have typical action figure movement but I want to add the joints (ex. ball and socket shoulder joint) while still in its 3d form… the only time I have seen this done is in sensables free form system but the price for this software is a little steep http://www.sensable.com/industries-toys-promotional.htmand by bnt studios in rhino http://www.bntstudios.com/t1-batman.html
but im still really new at rhino so im not sure how to do it but this whast I want to do Im just haing trouble moving forward thanks for the reply
If I understand correctly what you wish to do, you would have to model each joint as a separate 3D model and then the pieces would be assembled after milling or casting. ZBrush is excellent at organic modeling but I think you would find it difficult to get the precision necessary for a smoothly operating ball joint, for example. I’ve not used Rhino but I would think that a nurbs program with CAD accuracy is what you need.
well thats what im trying to learn… thanks for the help, hopefully ill be able to post some work once it gets looking decent again I appreciate the feedback 